In a summer full of frustration for Newcastle United, things could be about to get even worse with reports now suggesting that PIF could yet help deal them a major blow.
Howe delivers verdict on "difficult" summer
Those at St James’ Park have had plenty of ambition without reward so far this summer. Whilst they deserve praise for the signing of Anthony Elanga, other targets have come and gone elsewhere in what has become the frustrating trend of their transfer window.
The latest to do so looks set to be Hugo Ekitike. Although reports suggested that Newcastle had already submitted an opening bid for the Frenchman with a second on the way, Liverpool soon swooped in to steal a march on the Magpies. With concerns that the Reds would instead turn towards Alexander Isak if they missed out on the Frankfurt star, Newcastle dropped out of the race for his signature.
Eddie Howe, like all involved at St James’ Park, will be incredibly disappointed by how the summer transfer window has gone so far. He told reporters when asked about Newcastle’s business: “It was a difficult summer (to switch off) with everything going on behind the scenes.
“Obviously losing Paul (Mitchell) and all of the dynamics changing within (the club). The Sporting Director role is such a pivotal role at the club, so there was a lot (of work) to pick up.
“There has been a lot of work, transfer-wise, for very little incoming action, although we are delighted to get Anthony Elanga in, who has done very well in training so far. But a lot more work (is needed) behind the scenes in preparation for the new season.”
More clinical than Ekitike: Howe plotting Newcastle move to sign £75m+ star
Losing out on Ekitike could prove to be a blessing in disguise.
2 ByTom Cunningham
After calling for more work to be done, Howe may not exactly get his wish, however. In fact, reports are now suggesting that PIF could even play a part in dealing Newcastle their biggest blow yet.
Saudi giants plotting shock Isak move
According to Sky’s Gianluca Di Marzio, Al-Hilal are now plotting a shock move to sign Isak from Newcastle this summer in what would see PIF work on a deal between two of their majority owned clubs. Led by Simone Inzaghi, the Saudi market is said to be “heating up” with Al-Hilal “considering a massive offer to convince both the club and the player.”
It’s an unexpected twist, to say the least, but the Magpies could now reportedly lose out to the rich owners that they entrusted with keeping the Swede in the first place.
Despite the fact that PIF own a majority stake in both clubs, there would reportedly be no issue regarding the regulations if Al-Hilal did sign Isak this summer. Having lost out on Ekitike to fend off any interest from Liverpool in Isak, it would now be the summer’s most shocking turn if the forward moved to the Saudi Pro League courtesy of PIF.
There’s no doubt that the Magpies would be losing one of, if not the, best striker in the Premier League or perhaps world football, who earned plenty of praise from Gary Neville last season.
The Manchester United legend and Sky Sports pundit said after Newcastle defeated the Red Devils: “You could really see the quality of his play and his movement tonight.
“He’s absolutely fantastic and he’s improving all the time. We know he can score goals, we know he can run, but also his hold-up play and his link with others has got better and better since he’s been at Newcastle.”